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In what some experts are calling the most important Alzheimer’s research of the decade, scientists at 61 medical centers across the country and elsewhere have launched a groundbreaking study to test whether an experimental new medication can protect healthy older adults from the memory loss and brain damage caused by the disease. “Our best chance of really changing the disease is to start treatment before people have symptoms,” said lead researcher Reisa Sperling, professor in neurology at Harvard Medical School and director of the …

Yes, we know that eating more veggies, getting more exercise and controlling blood pressure are the most effective ways to reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke, but new research also points to some simple, surprising ways you can protect your ticker. Give more hugs Hugging doesn’t just feel good – it’s good for you. A 10-second hug once or twice a day lowers blood pressure, says a recent Swedish study, published in the journal Comprehensive Psychology, that looked …

Two new studies published in the journal Neurology in the past week – and dozens over the years – seem to suggest that heart health and brain health are inexorably linked. The first study, published last week, found that older people with hardening of the arteries are more likely to have beta-amyloid plaques on their brains. The other, published yesterday, found that people with high blood sugar are more likely to have memory problems. Sign up for the AARP Health …

Does Alzheimer’s confuse you? You’re not alone. In fact, one of the great mysteries of modern science is the question of what actually causes Alzheimer’s disease. For several years a group of Alzheimer’s disease researchers have believed that metals such as iron and copper play a role. Now a new study supports that theory. Researchers at the University of Rochester Medical Center found that copper may trigger the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. Rashid Deane, Ph.D., lead author of the study, …